Fashion has seen a rise and rise of the ugly shoe over the past couple of years, with Prada making velcro sandals a must-have, Christopher Kane’s embellished Crocs and then Celine and Balenciaga bringing sock boots to our attention on their spring and autumn catwalks. Part-sock and part-boot ( – did you need me to explain that? No, I didn’t think so) – of everything we see walking the catwalk you can be sure even the most adventurous shoe trends will always be translated onto the high street because, in general, I think we’re most experimental with our shoes.

Whilst browsing Marks and Spencer for winter basics I came across these sock boots, shoes that tick so many of my current boxes: navy, velvet, low-heel and point toe. They’re a really versatile and flattering shape; the slouchy fabric drapes around the smallest part of the ankle, accentuating the slimmest part of the leg where some ankle boots may cut you off at the thick of your calf.

In short I’ve worn them with leather trousers, cropped jeans, denim culottes, pleated skirts, velvet dresses (yes to double velvet) and there arrival is perfect, they’re just in time for the party season where I keep them in my handbag for those emergen just in time for the party season.

Style with leather trousers, a long-line white shirt and statement blazer for a sleek evening look